Lexical definition of essay pertains to an interpretative literary composition usually dealing with its subject from a limited or personal point of view.
As to its usage, essay can be defined as a personal stand expressed in writing expressing criticism, manifesto, learned arguments, recounting or recollection of events and reflection of the author.
Based on the origin of the word, essay remains as an attempt to express the author’s thought and with the dawn of technology, essay can already be expressed in numerous media.
In the modern times, essay is being utilized as a tool in language learning. Through structured writing exercises, students are being asked to write literary compositions with introductory paragraph, supporting statements or paragraph and conclusion – the structured format of an essay, to enhance there writing skills.
Essay is also being used in selective processes particularly in admitting applicants for a certain position in the company or for students enrolling in universities to pursuit higher learning.